Petes Branch Trail

Petes Branch Trail is a 3.5 mile out and back trail located near Chuckey, Tennessee that features a waterfall. The trail is good for all skill levels and primarily used for hiking, walking, and trail running. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash.

dogs on leash

kid friendly

hiking

walking

running

forest

waterfall

This trail starts with a gravel (slightly washed out) Jeep trail then narrows into a single-person path to a waterfall. I was surprised this was marked an easy trail, because you have to cross the creek at least seven times - not easy crossings either. The creek was up on the day I went, so my feet got wet since water was up to my calf. Some of the crossings had big rocks to jump on, but at least three did not at all. The creek would have to be really low to not get wet at least once.
After the Pete’s Branch split, it was not particularly steep until the very end. It’s a well-maintained trail. The Waterfall was peaceful but there are not a lot of dry places to sit and enjoy the view. I wish I had brought a blanket because the nearby rocks were wet from overhead drippings of the rock facing. Still, it was a great place for a snack and to enjoy the peaceful waterfall.

This trail follows a rough gravel road for a little over a mile. With a mild incline and several tricky creek crossings but still manageable to cross. Once the road ends you follow the blue markers for Pete's Branch Falls on the left for another half mile to the falls. Definitely worth the trip out there. The falls are amazing!

We couldn't make it all the way to the falls. We heard what sounded like a bear so we decided to turn back. It was a beautiful hike.

Annette Z.

hiking

Friday, September 29, 2017

Today the waterfall was nearly dry. Lots of garbage on the trail. We didn't see any wildlife except for an old wild recliner hanging out near a primitive campsite at the end of the part of the trail that vehicles can access. Easy hike, not much slope until you get close to the waterfall.